Idara Jerome, Uyo

Parents and guardians in Akwa Ibom State have been advised to enrol their children and wards only in government-approved schools as the state government moves to clamp down on the proliferation of unapproved and unauthorised private schools.

The Ministry of Education said the measure was aimed at protecting children from receiving education in substandard environments and ensuring compliance with approved standards across schools operating in the state.

In a statement, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Essien Umoh, made available to newsmen in Uyo on Tuesday, the ministry urged parents to verify the approval status of schools before enrolling their children, noting that the list of authorised schools was available at the ministry for public reference.

The commissioner disclosed that all schools operating without approval from the Ministry of Education had been given until August 31, 2026, to regularise their operations or face sanctions.

He warned that from September 1, 2026, any unauthorised school that fails to comply with the directive would be closed down, sealed and prosecuted in line with relevant laws.

Umoh said the development was part of Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, which prioritises quality education and the creation of a safe and standard learning environment for children in the state.

“All schools operating without approval from the Ministry of Education are given up to 31st August, 2026 to regularise their operations,” he stated.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to sanitising the education sector and ensuring that only schools that meet required regulatory standards are allowed to operate in Akwa Ibom State.